When patients lose a tooth, most people focus only on the missing tooth itself. However, what many people do not realize is that the jawbone underneath also begins to deteriorate almost immediately after tooth loss. Bone regeneration plays a critical role in preserving the foundation needed for long-lasting dental implants and overall oral health.At Ortega…

Parents should watch for the following signs: Early or late loss of baby teeth Difficulty chewing or biting Mouth breathing Thumb sucking beyond age 4–5 Crowded or blocked-out teeth Jaws that shift or make sounds Underbite, overbite, or crossbite Protruding front teeth Speech difficulties Facial asymmetryEven if no obvious problem is present, an orthodontic evaluation…

Early orthodontic treatment can be important because many orthodontic problems are easier to guide while the child is still growing. The goal is not always to put on full braces right away, but to identify issues early and intervene when treatment can prevent a more severe problem later.The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children…

When someone is missing teeth, a couple of replacement options include bridges and dental implants. These are common ways to fill in the gaps, but there are differences between the two. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand them before making a decision.A bridge is anchored by the teeth on…

Dental implants are not susceptible to the decay that afflicts natural teeth, but still require adequate cleaning to remove plaque that can stick to them and infect the surrounding tissue. Periodontal disease can destabilize the jawbone, and consequently the implant. Although a dental hygienist can clean the implant's abutment and the crown, the patient must…